Inspections can indicate any possible problems that may exist before take-off, allowing the pilot-to-be to assess whether or not it is safe to fly. Each plane is different and has its own characteristics, but there are some common key points.
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It is the pilot designated as aircraft commander for the forthcoming flight who must determine who carries out the duty. It is quite common for aircraft commanders to decide to carry out the external inspection prior to the first flight of a particular flight crew duty period themselves.
The inspection usually consists of visual and operational check of certain items and/or systems to ensure for serviceable and operable of the specified items and/or systems, and finally the whole airplane is fit to fly.
If you obtain a standard briefing several hours before the flight or when the weather is questionable, it is a good practice to call an FSS for an abbreviated briefing just before takeoff. The FAA has established a universal toll-free telephone number for FSSs: 1–800–WX–BRIEF (1–800–992–7433).
The pre-flight inspection is usually an abbreviated form of the daily inspection. These inspections are not intended to waste energy, be a mundane exercise, or be completed at record speed. They are designed to identify issues on the ground, so they are not issues in the air.
Commercial airplanes require frequent maintenance to offer a safe flying experience. They typically undergo a basic maintenance inspection once every two days, followed by a more thorough heavy maintenance inspection once every few years.